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OM MANI PADME HUM Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Wheel from Nepal

$254.25
$339
25% off
Includes any tariffs and taxes
Specifications
ZDF83
Copper, Brass and Amber Dust with Inlay
Height: 8.5 inch
Width: 4.2 inch
Depth: 4.2 inch
Weight 700 gm
Delivery and Return Policies
Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
Free Delivery
Easy Returns
Easy Returns
Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs
Fully Insured
Fully Insured
All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.
100% Handmade
100% Handmade
All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

An Emblem of Enlightenment: The Sacred Prayer Wheel

This exquisite Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel is more than just a beautiful object; it is a potent symbol of spiritual practice and a gateway to inner peace. Crafted in Nepal, a land steeped in ancient traditions, this wheel embodies centuries of devotion and the profound teachings of Buddhism. Its intricate design and rich symbolism invite contemplation and offer a tangible connection to the path of enlightenment.

The Resonance of Om Mani Padme Hum

The mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum" is one of the most sacred and widely recited mantras in Tibetan Buddhism. It is believed to embody the essence of all teachings and to purify the mind, speech, and body. Each rotation of this prayer wheel is said to send forth the blessings and compassionate vibrations of this powerful mantra into the world. In Tibetan lore, the mantra is often associated with Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, whose benevolent presence is invoked through its recitation. It is said that the sound of the mantra can transform negative energies into wisdom and compassion, bringing peace not only to the practitioner but to all sentient beings.

Artistry Rooted in Tradition

The craftsmanship of this prayer wheel is a testament to the skill of Nepalese artisans. Constructed from durable copper, it is further adorned with accents of brass, creating a harmonious blend of materials. The vibrant inlay of turquoise and red gemstones evokes the natural beauty and spiritual significance of these sacred stones in Himalayan cultures. Turquoise is often seen as a stone of healing and protection, while red can symbolize vitality and passion. The central body of the wheel, made from what appears to be amber dust, adds a warm, luminous quality, reminiscent of solidified sunlight or the inner radiance of enlightenment. The golden Sanskrit script, representing the syllables of the mantra, is meticulously inlaid, ensuring its beauty endures.

A Tool for Spiritual Cultivation

In the tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, a prayer wheel is a physical manifestation of the Buddha's teachings and a powerful tool for accumulating merit. As one spins the wheel clockwise, it is believed that the prayers and mantras contained within are sent out into the universe, spreading blessings and good fortune. This practice is not merely rote repetition; it is a meditative act that cultivates mindfulness, concentration, and compassion. The act of turning the wheel can be a reminder to turn away from negativity and towards wisdom, much like the mythological figure of the turning wheel of dharma that symbolizes the Buddha's teachings set in motion. This particular prayer wheel, with its substantial size and detailed ornamentation, is designed to be a cherished companion on one's spiritual journey, a constant reminder of the path to inner peace and awakening.

How are Nepalese copper statues made?

Nepalese statues and sculptures are best known for their unique small religious figures and ritual paraphernalia for over two thousand years. These are mainly cast in copper alloy. Nepal draws influences from the artistic styles of Buddhism and Hinduism, and therefore the sculptors of the country specialize in making the icons of both these religions. Over the years, Nepalese sculptures evolved into their own distinctive iconography. Some characteristic features of these sculptures that differ from other pieces are exaggerated physical postures, youthful and sensual features, languid eyes, wider faces having serene expressions, and ornate flourishes. The Buddhist deity icons of Nepal have tremendous demand in countries such as China and Tibet for ritual purposes in their temples and monasteries.

Nepalese statues and sculptures have a high copper content and therefore develop a slightly reddish patina on the surface as they age. However, the most unique feature of Nepalese copper statues is their decorative detailing. The pieces are heavily gilded and sometimes inlaid with semi-precious stones. This embellishment protects them from getting tarnished. The traditional lost-wax method for casting Nepalese copper statues remains the most practiced technique in Nepal for many centuries. This process involves many steps and requires skilled artists.

The first step in lost-wax sculpting is to make a wax replica of the desired Buddhist deity to be cast in copper. This replica is created by hand and therefore needs excellent artistic skills otherwise fine features will be lacking.

Once the wax replica is made, it is then coated with a special mixture of clay with a brush. This layer of clay is hardened when left to dry. A small hole is made on the base of the wax mould so that the wax flows away when it is heated.
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At this stage, a hollow mould in the shape of the deity is obtained.

This is the time to pour liquid copper into the hollow mould which is then allowed to cool and harden inside a container of cold water. When the liquid metal has hardened, the mould is removed and the statue within is revealed.
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The artist works on the details of the statue using various tools. It is then polished to get a shiny and lustrous surface.

Now comes the most important part of Nepalese art which is gold gilding. This is done by the traditional fire gilding method. A mixture of mercury and 18K gold is applied on the surface of the statue and heat is applied using a flame torch. The result is that mercury evaporates along with impurities, leaving a pure 24K gold finish.
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The lost-wax method of sculpting is the most preferred technique

for artists to cast a metallic statue having intricate details. Since Nepalese copper sculptures require extraneous effort for giving a majestic look by adding special embellishments, it takes several weeks to complete one masterpiece. A 24K gold gilded copper sculpture retains its brilliant luster for many years and appears as like before. Nepalese sculptures continue to remain one of the finest specimens of the art of the East that have a strong aesthetic appeal that other sculptures cannot match.
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Frequently Asked Questions
  • Q. Is the statue hollow or solid ?
    A. Brass statues are made through a process of clay casting, hence are hollow. Whereas, panchaloha bronze statues are made through a process of lost wax casting, hence they are solid.
  • Q. Can I return the statue ?
    A. Of course you can return a statue. Returns need to be initiated within seven (7) days after delivery. All returned items must be in new and unused condition, with all original tags and labels attached. To know more about our Return Policy, please visit Return Policy.
  • Q. Can you customise the statue for me ?
    A. For any customisation, kindly email us at help@exoticindia.com.
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